To start, we are staying in a beautiful 18th century building constructed from the off white volcanic rocks called sillar used in most buildings in this town, thus giving Arequipa the nickname, "White City." A combination of Gothic and Spanish charm, Jeremy can hardly fall asleep at night. (Remember, he is a huge fan of entryways.) This place is like a castle and a campground at the same time. Heaven, for only $50 USD!
After getting settled last night, Jeremy decided to lead me to La Trattoria del Monasterio, one of Araquipa's most sought after restaurants. Gaston Arcurio is the famous Peruvian chef behind this place, and as Lonely Planet promised, it was an epicurean delight. For only $50 USD!
We spent today exploring the city, starting early at the Plaza de Armas. There we joined all 750,000 of Arequipa's inhabitants, out for a morning stroll/parade/protest. Viva Peru!
Next, we headed to Arequipa's prized touristic site, El Monasterio de Santa Catalina. This convent is a 20,000 square meter complex that has been around since 1580. We got lost in this city within the city, which really was quite beautiful, even if it did bore me rather quickly.
If you've followed our past travel and blogging tales, by now, even though it wasn't quite yet noon, we needed a drink, so in search of cerveza we went. We found a small cafe with a roof top patio and gorgeous views of El Misti, Arequipa's nearest mountain and volcano. And so we dined on "typical fare" that was spicy and delicious: rocotto relleno, a stuffed pepper full of meat, veggies, and cheese served over potatoes and eggs.
The relleno got our hunger started, which means only one thing in Peru: time for mas ceviche! Fory Fay was the destination of choice: no frills, authentic, diner-like in nature. We were served a bowl of fish and onions and seaweed swimming in a citric acid of lemon and lime juice. Scary, but superb. And way less than $50 USD! Our two course lunch probably cost us $25, drinks included. Ay caramba!
With money to spare, we headed to a local alpaca shop and dropped 100 soles ($33) on a bad ass hoodie and reversible stocking hat (Jeremy) plus a poncho sweater and striped hat (Nicole).
And here we are now, blogging on Jeremy's phone from the courtyard of our hostal, La Casa de Melgar, sipping an Argentine Malbec and figuring out plans for dinner. Viva Arequipa!
-- Posted from my iPhone
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ReplyDeleteSounds like the two of you guys are having a fantastic time and spending not too many USD's. LOL
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